Migrant rescue at sea : a humanitarian view of search and rescue in Malta

Abstract

This study set out to determine whether international human rights obligations are relevant to, and incorporated into, the training of rescue officials working with the Maritime Squadron of the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM). The study delves into the topics of migration, human rights and maritime law, and training pertaining to persons involved in rescue and border control in the Mediterranean. Dilemmas associated with national security and human security, postcolonial ties to migration, and organisational work within a fast-changing environment are also explored in relation to the AFM‟s work. Literature on the topics indicates that education on human rights law would be of benefit to rescuers and border guards operating in the Mediterranean at present. The research also includes a field study, consisting of in-depth interviews with members of the AFM and representatives of external organisations working in the sphere of migration. The research findings determined that further training on human rights law is required for members of the Maritime Squadron involved in the rescue of migrants at sea. Furthermore, the study has uncovered that diverse actors working in the area of migration stand to benefit from more interagency communication in order to fill gaps in knowledge and enhance mutual understanding. The research takes an interdisciplinary, holistic approach throughout. It comes at a time which has brought together the fields of migration, humanitarian action and fundamental human rights, and its findings reflect the necessity to tackle issues pertaining to all sectors in unison.